Forts of Kerala – St Angelo’s Fort – Kannur

This fort is one of the forts built by the Portuguese in Kerala. It was built by the first Portuguese viceroy, Don Almeida, in 1505. It is a laterite fort, with a moat and bastions, and stand out on to the Arabian Sea. It is locally known as Kannur Fort.

It was captured by the Dutch and handed over to Ali Raja of Kannur. Subsequently, when the British arrived, they took it under their arms. Now, it is protected by the Archeological Survey of India.

This fort is only three km from Kannur town. The Moppila bay forms a fishing centre and harbour here. A sea wall separates the waves from the fort. The Dharmadom island, too, is close by. You can have a spectacular sunset view from the fort. Kannur is about six hours from Cochin.